The leverage problem
Mandatory minimums change plea bargaining by turning charge selection into the most important sentencing decision in the case.
Why this matters
When the floor is high, the negotiation space shrinks. Defendants often evaluate the plea against the risk of a much harsher trial outcome, not just the facts.
Practical consequence
The result is a system that can punish litigation posture more than conduct. That is why mitigation, cooperation, and early factual development matter so much.